

















The 


El Paso Conference 


A conference of religious, social, edu- 
cational, and welfare representatives held 
to consider the interests of Mexicans 
and Spanish-speaking people in the 
United States, at the Church of the 
Divine Savior, El Paso, Texas, December 
11-16, 1926. 

This pamphlet embodies the final find- 
ings of the conference and a statement 
regarding the disposition made of reports 
submitted by the several chairmen of 
commissions. 


aa 


























CONTENTS 


Introduction 0 sGecc ee hs pee es ae eee 3—D 


Chairmen of Commissions, Committees, Officers .............. 5-6 


Findings and Recommendations 


Socitalcand: Economic actors = wien. sets eee eee eee 7-10 
Internationalsand#lntérracial Vactorsee. =. et ee eee 11-12 
Education eo cmiechetate cst, cre agt ioe ee one ae ee eo ened en te te 13-15 
Religioty ~. vos erspculaere se cts oe nla eas pean anePont SAO ter Vic estas ene eRe 16-17 
Literature... 32 Sokeceie cee es catees econ Me erecta toe eee ata cae 18-19 


Mexicans and Spanish-speaking people in the United States. Un- 

der the heads of, Social and Economic Factors, Education, Reli- 
gion, Interracial and International Factors, and Literature, five commis- 
sions prepared respective reports. The facts gathered by commissions 
came from every section of the United States where Mexicans were found. 
Representatives of many agencies participated in this preliminary study. 
These reports constituted the basis for discussion and final findings. No 
effort was made to complete a detailed, scientific survey. It was the 
hope that this conference might serve participating groups who are facing 
immediate problems, and, at the same time, point the way for continuing 
studies in this field. The procedure throughout was based on the theory 
that the chief need in most situations is not an exhaustive compilation of 
facts gathered by parties who cannot use them, but an honest facing of 
many facts already available or readily secured by those who are actually 
responsible for changing conditions. Too often knowledge far outruns 
the disposition to use it. For this reason administrators and local workers 
were enlisted in carrying out preliminary studies and in directing the 
conference itself. 

The conference was projected by Home Mission boards having work 
in the Southwest, which are constituent members of Council of Women 
for Home Missions and Home Missions Council. The two Councils 
voted their endorsement of the conference and also their cooperation. 
While the interest of the Councils and field workers furnished the princi- 
pal incentive to the conference it ought to be said that this interest was 
intensified by the consideration the Committee on Cooperation in Latin 
America was giving to several possible conferences in the region of West 
Indies and Mexico. 

The financial backing was provided by interested boards. The confer- 
ence itself, however, included representatives of Home Mission boards, 
educators, welfare workers, and business men. [very effort was made 
also to secure a fifty per cent representation of the Mexican and Spanish- 
speaking people themselves. This ideal was not fully realized, but fully 
fifty Spanish-speaking people were registered as delegates and shared 
freely in conference discussions. The conference was not planned as an 
occasion for a group of Anglo-Americans to confer about Spanish-speak- 
ing people in this country. It was rather to be a conference in which rep- 
resentatives of both groups would confer together about matters of 
mutual interest. The total registration was fully one hundred and fifty. 
The committee had planned on about one hundred and twenty-five. The 
registration was limited in order to provide adequate opportunity for dis- 
cussion. 

The purpose of the conference, as declared by the Committee on 
Arrangements, was :— 

1. Cooperatively to find and face the facts basic to the solution of the 
major problems affecting Mexicans and Spanish-speaking people in the 
United States. 

2. To develop and focus a more intelligent public opinion on these 
problems. 


4 El Paso Conference was set up to consider the interests of 


3 


3. To provide that all interested agencies may face the facts together 
and permit each to use the findings in such ways as may be of advantage 
to their own programs. 

The following statement made by the chairman at the opening session 
fittingly expresses the purpose and spirit which pervaded the conference 
throughout — 


It ought to be constantly kept_in mind that this is not a conference of people 
all of whom see eye to eye. Our unity will lie in an open-minded approach 
to facts which may come before us. We may not all interpret facts in the same 
way. We can at least be sympathetic and charitable toward each other. The 
presence of the delegates here is certainly evidence of a mutual interest in a com- 
mon cause. Then, too, we are not here to find fault with each other, or discredit 
each other, or the organizations we represent. 

We are here first of all to discover the privileges to which the Mexican and 
Spanish-speaking people, who are a part of our common social life, are entitled, 
and the means by which these can be provided. The best that any individual or 
group has done in relation to such ends is all too limited and imperfect to warrant 
much stone-throwing. It will be far better if each will give attention to evaluating 
his own work in the light of unmet needs and responsibilities, rather than to 
emphasize the shortcomings of others. We are not here to correct others but to 
find facts which may affect the policies, attitudes, and aims of all our groups after 
this conference is over. It will be a real step forward also if we can realize 
that none of our agencies can function most effectively on an individualistic basis. 
This conference ought to make allies of many who heretofore have had very 
limited dealings with each other. 


The participation of both Spanish-speaking and Anglo-American 
groups in the conference was most gratifying. The fact that sessions were 
held in one of the Mexican churches of El Paso, and all speeches were 
interpreted, contributed much to the success of the meeting. It also 
greatly affected the Mexican people of the community, many of whom 
attended the evening sessions. The influence from these factors cannot 
be measured, but it is by no means the least of the benefits coming from 
the gathering. 

The interest in the conference never lagged. The delegates remained 
throughout. A new sense of unity and mutual responsibility was awakened. 
The difficulties and magnitude of the problems involved were more clearly 
revealed. The final findings presented herein will show that few things 
which vitally affect the welfare of Mexican or Spanish-speaking groups 
were overlooked. Each study topic was freely discussed. Every partici- 
pating agency will be profited. The church groups, being most numerous, 
will as a consequence profit most. 

Reverend Vicente Mendoza, a native Mexican and editor of El Mundo 
Cristiano, of Mexico City, and Jose Kelly, general delegate of the Mexican 
Federation of Labor, made worthy contributions to the conference. Each 
gave one of the main addresses of the five-day meeting; Mr. Mendoza on 
Sunday evening, December 12, and Mr. Kelly on Wednesday evening, 
December 15. Mr. Mendoza, who has made a close study of social and 
industrial conditions on this side of the border, as well as of recent religio- 
political developments in Mexico, gave several reasons why Mexican immi- 
grants refuse to become American citizens. He mentioned pride of race, 
nearness of native land, conviction that American industry seeks to exploit 
Mexican laborers, lack of social considerations, and a memory of the 
War of 1847. 

Mr. Kelly, Mexican labor leader, denied that organized labor in Mexico 


4 


maintains bolshevistic or socialistic agencies in Europe, and pictured the 
southern republic on the eve of making a positive contribution to the civil, 
industrial and cultural progress of the world. 


“Tf alien forces inimical to the wholesome development of our 
nationhood let us work out our political and industrial destiny un- 
hampered, if Mexicans take their stand as Mexicans, build up a 
school system and use all other available elements of their strength, 
the United States will in time cease to have a Mexican immigrant 
problem; Mexico not only will keep all of her own people but will 
have an immigrant problem of her own, so great and valuable are 
her natural resources. In the meantime Mexico looks to United 
States to send back to her bands of educated young people prepared 
to join in the work of reconstruction.” 


Mr. Kelly predicted a new day for Mexican labor in the United States. 
“The goal of Mexican labor here,” he said, “is a position in skilled and 
unskilled ranks now occupied by members of racial groups having their 
American origins a generation or two ago.’ 

The conference as a whole gave all a new realization of the necessity 
of closer cooperation and more mutual good will. Representatives of 
church and social agencies came to see that a more sympathetic relation 
should exist between them. The complete task discovered calls for the 
contribution of all. The impression was made that a new day has dawned 
for these Spanish-speaking people who are destined to become a more 
conspicuous factor in the social and economic life of our nation. 

No complete report of the conference is being printed. The Findings 
are included in this pamphlet. The reports of commissions, as presented 
by their chairmen, with notations as to changes and as approved by the 
conference, are available on request. The supply, while limited, is felt 
to be adequate to care for any normal demand. 


The chairmen of commissions were as follows :— 

Social and Economic Factors—Robert N. McLean, Associate Director, 
Department City, Immigrant and Industrial Work, Board of National 
Missions, Presbyterian Church, WS BASIS ents Calif. 

Education—Thomas W. Currie, President, Theological Seminary of the 
Presbyterian Church, U.S., Austin, Texas. 

Religion—Jay S. Stowell, Director of Publicity, Board of Home Missions 
and Church Extension of the Methodist Episcopal Church, Philadel- 
phia, Pa. 

Interracial and International Factors—George L. Cady, Secretary, Ameri- 
can Missionary Association, New York, N. Y. 

Literature—E. M. Sein, Pastor, Plaza Mexican Church, Los Angeles, 
Cali; 

OFFICERS OF CONFERENCE 

President—Charles E. Vermilya, 156 Fifth Avenue, New York. 

Vice-President—E. M. Sein, Plaza Methodist Episcopal Church, Los 
Angeles, Calif. 

Secretary—James H. Batten, Pomona College, Claremont, Calif. 

Interpreters—E. M. Sein, Los Angeles, Calif.; F. 5S. Onderdonk, San 
Antonio, Texas. 

Chairman, Committee on Procedure and Findings—Wiulliam P. Shriver, 
New York. 





5 


CONTINUATION COMMITTEE 
George W. Hinman Thomas W. Currie R. C. Ortega 


Jay S. Stowell H. C. Donaldson Floyd Poe 
Charles E. Vermilya § Vernon M. McCombs _ Charles A. Thomson 
James H. Batten L. S. Mercado 


COMMITTEE TO CONTINUE STUDY OF SEASONAL LABOR, WAGES, AND 
HousING 
Robert N. McLean, 313 West 3rd Street, Los Angeles, Calif. 
Edwin R. Brown, 1254 Royal Court Street, Los Angeles, Calif. 
B. F. Coen, State Agricultural College, Ft. Collins, Colo. 
B. K. Tenney, Dallas, Texas. 
S. L. Hernandez, 3125 Rivera Street, El Paso, Texas. 
Z. T. Scott, Littlefield Bldg., Austin, Texas. 
F. S. Onderdonk, San Antonio, Texas. 
Mrs. C. S. Guerrero, San Marcos, Texas. 


EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 


Fred L. Brownlee Russell S. Showers 
Frank A. Smith Carroll M. Davis 
Hermann N. Morse Frank E. Stockwell 
John McDowell Samuel G. Inman 

Mrs. F. S. Bennett Grace Love 

Daisy June Trout G. I. Babcock 

Homer McMillan W. I. Haven 

Ernest M. Halliday W. H. Matthews 

R. L. Russell Thomas S. Evans 

Mrs. J. W. Downs Mrs. J. Ferguson 

James Cannon Jay S. Stowell, Secretary 
*David D. Forsyth Charles E. Vermilya, Sponsor 


Mrs. W. H. C. Goode 


INTERDENOMINATIONAL COUNCIL ON SPANISH-SPEAKING WORK IN THE 
SOUTHWEST 
President—George W. Hinman, 287 Fourth Avenue, New York. 
Vice-President—George L. White, 317 West 3rd St., Los Angeles, Calif. 
Executive Secretary—Charles A. Thomson, 756 Union Street, San Fran- 
CISCO, Calire 


THE HOME MISSIONS COUNCIL 


President iiacc cia s Bare ego ie eet ee eee Dr. Charles L. White 
Secretary. sey «Wl s oieha ane Race eoeet ee ree Charles E. Vermilya 


THE COUNCIL OF WOMEN FOR HOME MISSIONS 


President :23 Fire, tre re oe eres eee ie Mrs. John Ferguson 
Secretary / Sih). gi ee chi. ort ieee eee RET Florence E. Quinlan 
156 Fifth Avenue 

| New York. 
*Deceased 


RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE 
COMMISSION ON SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC FACTORS 


Adopted by the El Paso Conference 
December I1-16 


I. WHEREAS the housing conditions of recent Mexican immigrants 
are generally bad, and 

WHEREAS these conditions tend to develop discontent leading to 
migrancy, which in turn leads to a demand for more immigration, tending 
to perpetuate the vicious circle, and 

WHEREAS the employers of Mexican labor fail in general to recog- 
nize the economic waste, and 

WHEREAS the Mexican children are crowding into our public schools 
wherever possible, and that their influence on the Anglo-American children 
is dominantly colored by their home environment, and 

WHEREAS for the stability of democratic government, equal educa- 
tional opportunity is necessary for all members of the commonwealth, and 

WHEREAS child labor tends to prevent children of school age from 
receiving school instruction at the right time, under proper conditions, and 

WHEREAS health is dependent upon proper sanitation, supply of fresh 
air, and clean food, and 

WHEREAS Mexican housing conditions are bad, the people them- 
selves are generally afraid of night air, and are ignorant of proper diet, 

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That through all possible local 
agencies an aggressive campaign of education be instituted, looking for- 
ward to establishment of better homes for immigrant laborers and the 
determination of minimum standards of wholesome housing. 

We Recommend that all agencies represented in this Conference co- 
operate with the American Red Cross and other health agencies in their 
campaigns of health education. 

We wish to commend the National Child Labor Committee for its 
efforts put forth in bettering conditions of child labor among Mexican 
people. 

Il. WHEREAS the Mexican is by nature attached to his home and is 
disinclined to migration, and 

WHEREAS seasonal labor demands in the United States of America 
require frequent shifting of common labor groups, and 

WHEREAS due to lack of training in thrift, the Mexican makes no 
provision for unemployed periods, too often becomes dependent upon 
society, and too frequently delinquent, and 

WHEREAS under existing migrant conditions, the adequate education 
of his children and his own civic and spiritual progress becomes an impos- 
sibility, 

We, therefore, Recommend, 

THAT the National Conference concerning Mexicans and Spanish- 
Americans in the United States, go on record as favoring cooperative 
efforts on the part of municipal, state and federal labor offices looking 
toward the adequate distribution of seasonal labor ; 

THAT a publicity campaign be initiated by the organizations in the 
National Conference concerning Mexicans and Spanish-Americans in the 
United States, through bureaus of charity and other social and Christian 
agencies, to demonstrate the social and economic waste in the present 
method of handling seasonal labor. 

7 


III. THAT public school boards and service organizations be encour- 
aged to provide opportunity classes and recreational facilities for adult 
Mexicans. 

IV. THAT agricultural organizations, chambers of commerce, rail- 
roads, and industry in general, be persuaded, as far as possible, to budget 
their annual labor needs in order to eliminate the necessity so far as pos- 
sible, of constant migration. 

V. THAT industry and social service agencies be encouraged to stimu- 
late activity for Mexicans during idle time, capitalizing their talents. 

VI. THAT organizations and individuals concerned with Mexican 
labor, be encouraged to foster thrift among their employees. 

VII. THAT our churches and social agencies be encouraged to co- 
operate as fully as possible with immigration officials, offering their serv- 
ices and request such officials to call the attention of immigrants to the 
advantages of these agencies to the end that they may feel a real welcome 
in America. 

VIII. THAT we deplore the widespread ignorance of Americans on 
the general subject of Mexican capacity, talent, and assimilability, and 

THAT we do all in our power to make the Mexicans’ sojourn in 
America a real participation in our American life. 

IX. THAT we Recommend the work being done by the Council of 
Women for Home Missions among migrants and cannery workers, and 
call upon our churches and community houses to cooperate in this service. 


Approved and Referred to the Special Committee to Be Appointed by 
Charles E. Vermilya, Secretary, Home Missions Council, for the 
Purpose of Making a Special Study of the Subject. 

X. THAT a committee be appointed by the National Conference con- 
cerning Mexicans and Spanish-Amercians in the United States: 

(a) To study methods for the control of seasonal Mexican labor, 
especially methods which have succeeded, and to suggest mini- 
mum wage standards ; 

(b) To study successful efforts for better housing of Mexican 
families, especially of casual workers, and to suggest minimum 
standards of wholesome housing for Mexican workers; 

(c) To present these findings and standards to corporations and 
individual employers of Mexican labor, to reach public opinion 
through press and trade associations of the area, and to bring 
to the Mexican population their own responsibilities by educa- 
tional methods. 


OUR SOGIAL AGENCIES AND THE MEXICAN 


Some mention ought to be made of varied services that American 
Social Agencies are rendering to the Mexicen. He is sometimes accused 
of too great dependency upon these agencies, but the charge itself suggests 
something of the active efficiency with which they are reaching out to 
meet his needs. 

Individual workers would do well to secure information as to just 
what organizations are found in their state, county, or city which can be 
called upon to aid in re-enforcing plans for needed relief in their com- 
munities. 

8 


I, DEPENDENCY AND POVERTY 


For the following reports we are indebted to Dr. Smith of the Associated 
Charities of Nogales, Arizona, 

“While there is some truth in the accusation that ‘the Mexican is improvi- 
dent and becomes a charge upon the community,’ we must set over against 
the statement the helpful constructive services which are being rendered in 
this field by the social agencies of the country at large and the Southwest in 
particular. 

“Practically any community carrying on any form of organized activity 
has its human welfare agency of some kind, which gives itself not only to 
the work of meeting emergencies in human need, but to that more serious and 
important task of guiding the worker into constructive types of action which 
lead to economic independence; in fact, all welfare workers oe this age set 
up this objective as being OL primenmpontance,ss tec oar 

“In this field of service we have the Associated Charities ae our urban 
communities. This organization carries on under a variety of names, but 
in practically every case it serves as a clearing house for all types of human 
‘welfare work. Aside from this function it gives special attention to the 
stranger of the community, frequently making contacts which he has allowed 
to elapse. Often young men and young women are put in touch with parents 
and friends and thereby saved from vagrancy and crime. 

“A young American woman drifted to the cabaret life across the border. 
Her beauty attracted an intoxicated army officer who purchased her from the 
bartender for the sum of $500 cash in hand. She later made a desperate 
dash for liberty and on reaching American soil was arrested for being im- 
properly clothed. Being but fifteen years of age, the next day the chief of 
police and the judge brought her to the Charities officer for clothing and 
counsel which resulted in her being sent to the home of an aunt where she 
could finish her schooling and move in a religious atmosphere, all of which 
she was glad to do, and has become a most estimable young woman. Incidents 
could be multiplied almost indefinitely of this constructive service in our 
cities. 

“Family case work is a most appealing and fruitful field for Associated 
Charities work. Selecting a house, helping in the furnishing, planning the 
family budget, the taking up of any particular problems which may militate 
against their ability to ‘carry on’, giving direction to children and holding 
confidential counsel with the parents—all of this, and much more which is 
being systematically carried on by Welfare Agencies, gives evidence of being 
an indispensable service in adding to the sum total of human development 
and progress. 

“County Out Door Relief also functions in this field among those who are 
citizens of the county. An interesting item is reported where the superin- 
tendent makes a visit to every home prior to the opening of the public 
schools in September, making lists of all clothing, shoes and school supplies 
needed so that every child can appear at school on the opening day. This 
is kept up throughout the school year, attention being given to every item in 
the home and activities of the families which has direct or indirect bearing 
on their trek toward intellectual, moral and economic poise. 

“State Child Welfare plays a most important role in this great scheme of 
human uplift by furnishing money and giving at least general supervision 
and assistance to orphan and half-orphan children. 

“The American Red Cross, with its visiting nurse, Junior Red Cross and 
nutritional programs, has become the sworn enemy of disease and physical 
impoverishment in many isolated communities where economic and _ financial 
conditions have made it impossible for local people to successfully combat 
these evils. It also carries on through Chapters and Branches vital programs 
in our urban centers. 

“To prevent overlapping and waste, it is highly desirable that all of our: 
welfare agencies be coordinated in systematic cooperative effort. Notable 
in this connection are such cities and counties as St. Paul, Minnesota; 
Webster County and Des Moines, Iowa; City and County of Los Angeles, 
Calif.; El Paso, Texas; and Nogales and Santa Cruz County, Arizona— 
with others which might be mentioned. 

“Our Welfare Agencies represent the combined efforts of all of the 
people in combating the three common enemies of the race, namely poverty, 
ignorance and immorality.” is 


II. DELINQUENCY AND CRIME 


In the field of prevention may be listed all our special and community centers, 
settlements and churches. With their programs of recreation, education and 
inspiration, they furnish moral strength to many who otherwise would fall. 

The many national organizations which are promoting clubs are rendering large 
service in combating juvenile delinquency. 

The Y.M.C.A. has established Mexican branches at two points in the Southwest 
—E] Paso, Texas, and Miami, Arizona. 

The Y.W.C.A. ministers specifically to Mexican girls and young women through 
its International Institutes at San Antonio and Austin, Texas, and Los Angeles, 
Fresno, Oakland, and San Francisco, California. 

At other points American branches of both Associations endeavor to draw 
groups of Mexicans into their activities. 

The Boy Scouts are also reported to have organized several Mexican troops 
at various points in the Southwest. In some cases these are under the supervision of 
the American Service Clubs. 

Work is also probably being done by the Girl Scouts and the Camp Fire Girls. 

When the Mexican youngster oversteps the bounds of law, the Juvenile Court 
with its probation officers offers intelligent and sympathetic treatment of the youth- 
ful offender, and in many cases, by a study of his home and other environmental 
conditions, turns him back from a life of crime, and toward a career of usefulness. 


JGM) WShcinst 


Reference has been made to the outstanding health needs of the Mexican, and 
also to the services which our American agencies are rendering in this field. But 
it may not be superfluous to express again appreciation for the splendid helpfulness 
which clinics and hospitals are rendering. In addition to combating disease, they 
are also devoting great attention to health education with most encouraging results. 
In Los Angeles County, for example, over a period of seven years, the infant 
mortality rate for our Mexican population was reduced from 348.06 to 166.12. The 
school nurse by means of periodical examination of school children, followed up by 
visits to the homes, is also forwarding a good cause. 


IV. EpucaTIon 


Since education is the province of another commission, our report can but 
touch upon this point. The ordinary grade and high schools of course minister to 
the Mexican children and young people. In many places adult classes held at 
night for men, and sometimes during the day for women, afford opportunity to 
learn English and American standards of home-making. Vocational training in 
the grade and high schools is often of utility to the Mexican young people. Home 
teachers are a valuable feature of the educational system of California. They visit 
the homes of foreign families, organize classes in English, cooking, sewing, and 
other household arts wherever possible, and in general point their activities toward 
making the foreign mother a homogeneous element in the American community. 


THE CHRISTIAN SOCIAL CENTERS 


The Christian Social Centers render a varied social and religious service to 
the Mexican within our midst. Baptist, Congregational, Methodist, Presbyterian, 
and other denominations have already invested largely in this type of activity. The 
Sections of Women’s Work of the Board of Missions, Methodist Episcopal Church, 
South, has established Wesley Houses at Dallas, Ft. Worth, Houston, San Antonio, 
and Thurber, Texas, and at Los Angeles, California. The Presbyterian Church, 
U.S. A., has its Homes of Neighborly Service at Azusa, Monrovia, Los Angeles, 
San Gabriel, San Bernardino, Redlands, and El Monte, California; Brighton and 
Greeley, Colorado; and San Antonio, Texas. The Plaza Community Church of 
Los Angeles operates under the Latin-American Mission of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. Four departments of work are carried on, namely, religious, which includes 
a regular church program with usual auxiliary organizations; night and day educa- 
tional classes with a Christian training school; a clinic and health department; 
and a general aid department. 


10 


RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE 
COMMISSION ON INTERNATIONAL AND INTERRACIAL 
FACTORS 


S 


Adopted by the El Paso Conference 
December r1-16 


I. We, the members of the National Conference concerning Mexicans 
and Spanish-Americans in the United States, assembled at El Paso, Texas, 
desire to urge upon our government that its relations with Mexico be 
developed in an atmosphere of sympathy and mutual good will, and that all 
questions at issue be approached with exceeding patience and resolved 
through conference and discussion. A sister republic is now engaged in a 
struggle for freedom no less significant and worthy than were the struggles 
of our own Revolution. Of all nations we should be the first to lend them 
our sympathy and the last to embarrass them in their hopes at this hour. 
We do not believe that a great nation reaches its best when it places 
property rights first, but that it is set by God in these times to help hu- 
manity up in its progress and to foster at all costs international good will. 

We would suggest that those who have made large investments in 
Mexico knew the peculiar hazards involved, and that a government whose 
highest ideals are peace and liberty ought not to jeopardize those ideals in 
order to validate claims so hazardously undertaken. We would suggest 
that our government first make a detailed study of such holdings and con- 
cessions, when secured, by whom and under what conditions granted, and 
the cost of such investments, and further to inquire carefully whether the 
Mexican people themselves were defrauded by the actions of their own 
government. It may be an unusual request from the standpoint of ordi- 
nary business; it is not too much to ask in the interest of humanity and 
national freedom. No government has.a right to alienate the land from its 
people and no other government has a right to be a partner in such aliena- 
tion. 

The American government could well afford to pay the purchase price 
for every investment of its citizens rather than precipitate an international 
conflict in the mere defense of property. We call upon our national authori- 
ties to exhaust every means to establish mutual good will. We believe that 
there can be no moral defense for the use of force or the breaking off of 
diplomatic relations in the present situation. We urge our government to 
set before itself one goal, the establishment and maintenance of friendly 
relations with our struggling sister republic on the south. 


II. We, the members of the National Conference concerning Mexicans 
and Spanish-Americans in the United States, assembled at El Paso, Texas, 
learn with shame the conditions of vice maintained largely by Americans 
along the Mexican border. Many of the larger gambling houses and 
saloons are operated and patronized by Americans, giving the Mexicans an 
interpretation of American life which is a national disgrace. If America 
is regarded as a Christian land then our Christianity is shamefully betrayed 
by citizens of Christendom. We desire to register our severest condemna- 
tions of both the owners and patrons of these institutions and to assure 
our Mexican brothers that these do not represent the moral and religious 


1] 


life of America. And we would register our opinion that the revenue 
received from licensing these vices in no way compensates for the degen- 
erating influences which they occasion. We urge the government of the 
United States to enter into negotiations with the government of Mexico 
to suppress these evils in the interest of morality, public safety, and inter- 
national respect. 


Ill. RESOLVED, that this Conference recommends to its affiliated 
groups, that, in addition to their strictly religious work, they cooperate with 
the social agencies and labor organizations in developing higher moral, 
social and economic standards among Mexican workers, believing that the 
raising of their level of social and economic life will reflect itself in a spirit 
of material independence and a positive contribution to the religious and 
cultural life of our society. 


IV. This Conference favors the visits to Mexico of representatives of 
cur churches to further good will and mutual understanding, and also 
favors the visits of Mexican church representatives to this country for 
the same purpose. 


V. We are persuaded that the present status of the movement of 
populations from Mexico to the United States and from the United States 
to Mexico is not wholly satisfactory, and in view of the preferential treat- 
ment accorded North and South America in the determination of our 
immigration policy, we record our judgment that the wisest and most co- 
operative solution will be arrived at by constituting, by the Governments of 
the United States and Mexico, a Joint Commission on Emigration and 
Immigration to recommend to their respective governments appropriate 
legislation. 


Approved and Referred to Home Missions Council and 
Council of Women for Home Missions. 


VI. We Recommend that this Conference go on record as disapproving 
of the present methods being used in some places with regard to deporta- 
tion of Mexicans. With this end in view the Government should be 
petitioned, through its proper authorities, to investigate the matter carefully, 
and bring about the use of more humanitarian methods. 


12 


RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE 
COMMISSION ON EDUCATIONAL FACTORS 


Adopted by the El Paso Conference 
December 11-16 | 


The Commission on Education for the National Conference concerning 
Mexicans and Spanish-Americans in the United States presents for con- 
sideration of the body the following Findings: 


I. We recognize the public school systems as one of the most potent 
and efficient agencies for dealing with the problem of educating and train- 
ing for citizenship the growing population of Spanish-Americans and 
Mexican people in the United States; and 

We appreciate the scientific and conscientious projects which are now 
in progress in the progressive communities where real achievements are 
taking place—notably in San Antonio, El Paso, Phoenix, Los Angeles, 
and in many other localities ; and 

We commend to all communities which have a Spanish-speaking popu- 
lation a study of the methods in use in these localities. 


II. While the National Conference concerning Mexicans and Spanish- 
Americans in the United States, recognizes that there is no correlated pro- 
gram for the educational work which is being done by various Protestant 
denominational boards, yet we find very definite aims in the individual 
schools. 

After investigation of institutions doing this sort of work, we find 
that objectives are the same as those of public schools, plus the training . 
in Christian citizenship, and the developing of native leadership along 
Christian lines. 

In order to bring about a higher type of community life and to develop 
a better economic condition for the group: 

We Recommend the introduction of limited industrial courses in 
grades below high school with enlarged vocational opportunities for those 
desiring such courses in high school. This should be accomplished through 
additional equipment in schools or cooperatively through industries of the 
communities. 


III. We Recommend to all communities the widest possible use of 
higher education already provided by the State, and suggest experiments in 
the establishment of schools of religion in connection with these institu- 
tions. 


Approved and Referred to the 
Interdenominational Council on Spanish-Speaking Work 


IV. In order to carry into effect the recommendations just mentioned 
with reference to the church schools: 


_We Recommend that the Interdenominational Council on Spanish- 
speaking Work appoint at once a Continuation Commission which shall 
make surveys of several communities in New Mexico from which students 


13 


are coming to institutions in New Mexico with a view to discovering the 
agricultural and industrial opportunities; as a guide to these schools in 
formulating their curriculums. 


Approved and Referred to the 
Home Missions Council and Council of Women for Home Missions 


VY. In view of the need for providing opportunities in higher education 
for students graduating from our church schools in New Mexico and 
neighboring territory : 


We Recommend to the Home Missions Council and to the Council of 
Women for Home Missions the establishment at Mesilla Park, in con- 
nection with the State Agricultural College of New Mexico, a co-ordinat- 
ing institute offering courses in religion, etc. 


(a) For four years’ work and not two, as the Spanish-American 
desires the higher degree as an evidence of attendance upon a 
higher institution of learning. 


(b) This institution should be at the Agricultural School, and so 
near enough to the border to afford opportunity for students 
from Old Mexico to attend, and where the climate is warm 
enough to make less burdensome the economic demands on 
the Spanish-Americans from the northern part of New Mexico. 


(c) The nearness of the city of Las Cruces would give the students 
some advantages. 


(d) The presence of the International Committee-owned Y.M.C.A. 
building on the campus would make the operation of such a 
school less expensive than elsewhere. This building might be 
leased for a term of years, and dormitory space provided for 
some of the students, and recitation rooms for courses in 
religious education and kindred subjects. A man and his wife, 
both duly qualified, might be able to handle this work for the 
first year. 


(e) All courses in the Agricultural College should be open to 
students of the Training School, and all courses in the Training 
Schools should be open to other students in the College, credits 
being interchangeable, and the courses being conducted on a 
parity. 

(f) With an increased emphasis on the practical work in agricul- 
ture, as planned by Prof. Bohannon, new values and worth 
would be given to the importance of the farmer in the plaza 
districts of New Mexico. 


(g) At the end of four years the degree of the State institution 
would be received, and a special diploma from the Training 
School, and students would return to service in their own state, 
whose needs and opportunities would have been constantly 
developed in their minds during the four years of higher 
education. 


14 


(h) A: new building for special religious work might be erected 
on the Agricultural College campus on a lot leased from the 
State for a long term of years, and at a low rental, the State 
having the right to purchase the building after a term of years, 
or after due notice of one to five years, and at a price to be 
determined by mutual agreement. 


(1) The presence of a selected group of Spanish-American boys 
and girls in the environment of the Agricultural College would 
give opportunity for interracial relations. The athletic prowess 
of some of the Spanish-American boys would tend to give 
them recognition on athletic teams. 


In case this does not seem feasible, we suggest one of the following 
alternate policies: 


(a) Establishment of a separate and independent four-year college, 
interdenominationally supported and controlled. (Mr. Buch- 
holz should be asked to present this plan in writing.) 


(b) Development of a Pan-American University at El Paso. (Mr. 
Vermilya and Mr. Stowell.) 


(c) Selection of special colleges already established, and the regular 
turning to such institutions, by the various denominations, of 
certain students graduating from the several schools. These 
students are to be regularly aided during their college courses 
by the aid of their several Boards of Education. 


(d) Realignment of present educational programs of several de- 
nominations involving new distribution of the work on the 
basis of a separation between the Senior and Junior High 
Schools, co-education in upper grades of the high school, and 
an addition of two years of further training, largely religious. 


(Charles E. Vermilya, New York; George W. Hinman, New York; William E. Hunter, 
State College, New Mexico, were appointed a committee to take under consideration the recom- 
mendations concerning establishment of a college.) 


15 


RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE 
COMMISSION ON RELIGIOUS FACTORS 


Adopted by the El Paso Conference 
December 11-16 


We Recommend that the aim of Christian missions among Mexicans 
and Spanish-speaking Americans in the United States should be the inter- 
pretation of Christianity in its fullness, the winning of individuals to a 
personal allegiance to Jesus Christ, the sharing of a spiritually enriched 
life with a seeking people; the promotion of the reign of good will among 
individuals and between diverse racial, religious, national, and social 
groups; and the application of the spirit of Christ to all social and economic 
situations. 


Attitude Toward Other Groups 
We Recommend that in carrying out such a policy our attitude shall 
be one of sympathy and cooperation with all agencies working toward 
similar ends. 


Comity 
We commend the Interdenominational Council of Spanish-speaking 
agencies at work in Spanish-speaking communities, and the ideals which 
have been set up and largely attained in this matter and we urge that 
efforts already so largely successful in this field be continued. 


Responsibility of Anglo-American Churches 

In view of the wide dissemination of our Spanish-speaking populations 
throughout the country, we particularly urge upon our Anglo-American 
churches the importance of getting acquainted with the Mexican popula- 
tions in their respective communities, of bringing Mexican children into 
their regular American Sunday Schools, finding ways to minister to the 
spiritual life of the adults, and of leading in promoting economic justice 
and interracial good will between the groups involved. 


Leadership 
Being convinced by our studies that work among Spanish-speaking 
peoples this side of the border is in urgent need of more adequate leader- 
ship, we Recommend that: 


1. A larger number of potential leaders—pastors, directors of religious 
education, teachers, and parish workers of other sorts—be sought out and 
aided in securing desired training. 

2. A more careful and intelligent effort be made to secure leaders of 
deepest spiritual life, higher moral ideals, more thorough preparation and 
greater capabilities, it being the consensus of opinion that race, nationality, 
or citizenship should not be determining factors if the above qualities are 
present in the leaders. 

3. That importance of proficiency in the use of the English language 
be emphasized as a qualification for leadership. 


16 


4, That denominations interested be urged to provide better facilities 
for the training of leaders. 


5. In order to secure a higher type of leadership in this work and make 
more efficient the leaders already in service, the various maintaining boards 
be urged to establish salaries more commensurate with the higher stand- 
ards of leadership demanded. 


Local Church Program 


In view of the limited program carried on in our local church fields, 
particularly our smaller churches, we earnestly Recommend and urge the 
putting on of a program similar to the following: 


I. EpucATIONAL LINEs: 


ET: 


(a) That the importance of grading our Sunday School work and 
of providing teaching in English, for pupils who desire it, be 
emphasized. 

(b) That the religious nurture of boys and girls be carried further 
than the Sunday School and that it include daily vacation Bible 
Schools, and wherever possible, week-day religious instruc- 
tions. 


(c) That special teacher training classes be instituted. 

SociaL LINES: 

(a) That classes and clubs of a social character be encouraged, not 
only in local churches, but in interdenominational groups. 

(b) That friendly interracial relationship be encouraged through 
athletic and other group community activities. 

(c) That literary and social programs be encouraged among the 
young people. 


III. We Recommend that the Council call upon all the churches in it 


iy 


represented to set aside one day for presenting the problem of 
cooperation in Latin-American Work and for intercession in 
behalf of the work. That the services be union services wherever 
possible; and that, if practicable, Mexicans or workers among 
Mexicans be invited to speak at these services. 


FINANCE: 


We Recommend that the tried plan of: systematic giving be en- 
couraged—namely, the Every Member Canvass—and that weekly 
giving and tithing be especially encouraged, and our members 
trained in this as our only hope of attaining self-support for the 
work. 


17 


RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE 
COMMISSION ON LITERATURE 


Adopted by the El Paso Conference 
December 11-16 


I. We urge the Superintendents of all Missions among Spanish-speak- 
ing people to keep constantly before their people the matter of the circula- 
tion of religious literature, supplying all workers with catalogs and price 
lists of available publications, and wherever possible, selling these books di- 
rectly to those who need them. 


Approved and Referred to the 


Interdenominational Council on Spanish-Speaking Work. 


Il. THAT the Committees on Literature of the permanent Council 
on Spanish-speaking work be enlarged to include representation from the 
Home Missions Council and the Council of Women for Home Missions: 


(a) 


(b) 


(c) 


(d 


Se 


(e) 


To communicate, as far as possible, with workers on the 
field, concerning the needs as regards publication of literature 
in Spanish ; 

To summarize the opinion of these workers, in the way of 
some concrete recommendations as to what literature is most 
needed ; 


To place this information before the proper representatives 
of the Home Missions Council, the Council of Women for 
Home Missions, the Committee of Cooperation in Latin- 
America, and any other organization which may be disposed to 
use it’ 
To establish and maintain relations of cooperation with the 
existing agencies working in the field of literature in Spanish, 
with a view to furthering in every way possible, the publication 
of such literature, and the avoidance of unnecessary dupli- 
cation ; 

To examine tracts, pamphlets, and books which may appear 
from time to time, and make recommendations, through 
evangelical periodicals in Spanish, which will put our people in 
touch with the agencies furnishing this literature. 


III. THAT a Committee on Music be appointed, whose duty it shall be 


(a) 


(b) 


(c) 


To collect from all sources possible the available results in the 
production of congregational and other religious music in 
Spanish ; 

To seek the most effective means possible of putting these re- 
sults at the disposal of our workers among Spanish-speaking 
people ; 

To see that, if possible, arrangements be made whereby phono- 
graph records of religious music be prepared, through compli- 
ance with conditions mentioned in the body of this report. 


18 


Approved and Referred to the 
Interdenominational Council on Spanish-Speaking Work and the 
Home Mission Boards. 


IV. We consider that an annual budget of $1,500.00 should be provided 
for the maintenance of the Nueva Senda, and Recommend that the Coun- 
cil take whatever steps it may consider wise for the allocation of this 
amount among Boards willing to cooperate, and for the general promo- 
tion of the interests of the paper. 


Amendments Made to the Report of the Commission on Literature, Which, 
Being Approved by the Conference, Are Virtually Findings: 


A. We think that some steps should be taken looking toward coor- 
dination of efforts in the preparation of textbooks to be used in Teacher 
Training, and in the awarding of credits for work done. 


B. We feel that Superintendents of the various Missions among Span- 
ish-speaking people can aid greatly in the circulation of literature by giv- 
ing constant emphasis to the matter, and by keeping workers under their 
direction supplied with catalogues and lists of books and tracts. 


C. We are informed that a hymn-book suitable for use in Elementary 
Departments of the Sunday School has been published by Mrs. Effie Nay- 
lor, in Cuba. The Committee on Cooperation in Latin-America has gath- 
ered material for the publication of a general Hymnal in Spanish. Also, 
a Committee of Southern Methodist workers in Cuban and Mexican fields 
has done considerable work looking toward the preparation of a hymnal 
for general use in Sunday School and Church services. We feel that 
steps should be taken to secure the utilization, in a cooperative way, of all 
material available in the field of congregational and other religious music. 


D. The Baptist Publishing House of El Paso is doing considerable 
work in the preparation of Sunday School literature for that denomination. 
The Quarterly Review, published by Southern Methodist workers in Cuba, 
is used in a number of schools in our territory. The Notas Explicativas, 
published by the Committee of Cooperation in Latin America, form a val- 
uable contribution to literature on the International Uniform Lessons. 
The Graded Literature, prepared in Spanish through the Primary Depart- 
ment, and most of the Junior Department, and the lessons for the Interme- 
diate Department are in process of preparation. These lessons are of the 
same characters as the Graded Lessons used in most well-organized Eng- 
lish-speaking Sunday Schools, and constitute a most valuable addition to 
literature for Sunday School work in Spanish. 


E. We are pleased to know that the American Bible Society contem- 
plates the preparation of a Concordance in Spanish, to be published in con- 
nection with some of its Bibles. This is greatly needed, and we hope it will 
soon be accomplished. We wish to express our heartiest appreciation of 
the very fine missionary work done by the American Bible Society in the 
distribution of Scriptures among Spanish-speaking and similar groups. 


19 











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